On July 23, 2010 Michelle Obama christened the cutter in a ceremony at the ship builder's.[5]

In August 2011, Stratton completed sea trials.[6] On September 2, 2011 Stratton was acquired by the Coast Guard.[7] On December 19, 2011 Stratton arrived in San Francisco, pier 27, for its inaugural homecoming visit to the Bay area.[8]

On March 31, 2012, Stratton was officially commissioned by the Coast Guard in Alameda, California, with First Lady Michelle Obama in attendance.[9]

In April 2012, the crew of Stratton discovered four holes in the hull and the ship was sent to drydock to have these repaired.[10]

On July 18, 2015, Stratton intercepted a semi-submerisible loaded with approximately 16,000 pounds of cocaine. Stratton was able to offload more than 12,000 pounds worth an estimated $181 million before the craft sank.[11][12] It is estimated to be the largest such seizure of its kind.[13]

July 2015 - Insitu UAS demonstrated how ScanEagle can maximize the effectiveness of USCG vessels, the exercise also showcased the platform’s ability to conduct seamless, concurrent aviation operations with manned aircraft.[14]